LaVern (Gopher) Harnisch was born September 26, 1926 in Menomonie to William and Mary (Kiegle) Harnisch. LaVern was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene Harnisch; granddaughter, Tabitha D. Harnisch; brothers, Ed, Leonard, Raymond, Marvin, John, and Douglas; sisters, May, Loretta, Joyce, Doris.

LaVern is survived by one son, Donald (Joan) Harnisch, Nekoosa, Wis; five grandchildren, Sabrina, Tanya, Aaron, Marissa, and Danny; and three great-grandchildren.

Lavern served in the U.S. Army and was a sergeant during the Korean conflict and a decorated veteran, receiving the Bronze star. Once discharged from the Army, LaVern was a merchant marine and sailed the great lakes. After doing this LaVern moved to Chicago and worked at Mars candy company and saved enough money to buy the farm which was located on County VV by Ridgeland, where LaVern operated a dairy farm until retirement.

After retirement Lavern enjoyed fishing, going to the casino, playing cards, and visiting with friends, as many of you know LaVern always had a lot to say. LaVern’s family and friends called LaVern Gopher, which is a nickname he received as a child. He was also a proud member of the Connorsville American Legion Post.

There will be a graveside service for LaVern at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20, in New Haven Cemetery, 1290th St., Boyceville, WI 54725. A luncheon will follow at Kistner’s Korner, 1260th Ave., Boyceville, WI 54725.

Arrangements were entrusted to Williamson~ White Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 222 Harriman Avenue North Amery.

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